AbelardDeep shadows of weariness can be seen on Abelard's face, though the old officer's eyes are keen. They rake over you from head to toe — he frowns, mutters something, then nods to himself. "Well, then, Your Lordship/Ladyship..."
NPC"You had us worried for a few hours there." Abelard offers a thin smile. "But after witnessing you fearlessly rush into the fray on deck, the only thing that surprises me is how long you stayed on your feet: your strength only left you once the fighting was all over. Such fortitude is most admirable in a Lord Captain!"
Abelard"You must now hold your first officers' briefing in your new role as Lord Captain. For many of those who are about to join us on the bridge, this will also be their first briefing. We sustained massive losses among the senior and middle-ranking officers — some posts have had to be filled by the deputy's deputy's deputy, while others go unfilled entirely, and now the deck clans are deciding who will take over the leaderless crews."
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"
Abelard"It appears the heretics were deliberately targeting the vessel's command — they knew exactly whom they were looking for and where they could be found. Which is unsurprising, given that their informant on board was our own Master of Whispers..." Abelard grimaces.
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"
Abelard"Reports on the condition of the ship and crew. The Lord Captain is not usually drawn away from her important affairs to attend such routine briefings, but this is a unique situation. I am still receiving updates from across the ship, and they are not encouraging. Getting this bird to fly could take a gargantuan effort, even so far as you personally negotiating with the authorities of the system we are currently in. So prepare to hear a bevy of complaints and excuses, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Take this opportunity to get a good look at the officers who work six decks away from the bridge. And they in turn will have the honour of beholding the visage of their Lord Captain."
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"
Abelard"There is no mistake, Your Ladyship. Lady Theodora before you was also the Lord Captain. Do not take your title literally — think of it as a sacred rank that remains unchanging no matter who bears the Warrant. You have been chosen by the Emperor to carry the honourable burden of the Rogue Trader. High Gothic, whence this title originates, is a highly formal language, and so a certain level of inflexibility is to be expected."
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"
NPCAbelard grits his teeth. "No, Lord Captain. In all the commotion, his trail went cold. Our people are still on the hunt for him and any mutineers who may still be skulking in the ship's many corridors... but, frankly, I would not be surprised to hear that we are now one shuttle short. I am afraid that it will be some time before he answers for all that he has wrought."
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."
AbelardThe old officer gasps and looks at you oddly. "I... do agree that your elevation to your new status was rather precipitous. I assure you there are good reasons for it — not least the fact that without a Lord Captain, the ship would be destined for naught but disaster... but I digress."
AbelardAbelard's voice softens slightly. "You do not have a choice, [Name]. You are the named heir of the Rogue Trader, and your fate is predetermined. Besides..." The Seneschal lowers his voice. "If Kunrad is intent on eliminating all the candidates, then his assassins must still be out there... waiting. I doubt they are reckless enough to attack you if you are draped in the mantle of the Rogue Trader. But if you were to disembark the ship bearing only the status of an ordinary servant of the Emperor..."
YOU"I understand. Let us return to more pressing matters."
AbelardThe Seneschal makes an approving sound. "A wise decision."
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."
AbelardWith a gesture, Abelard relays the order to the adjutants at the far end of the magnificent chamber.
NPCA dozen pairs of eyes bore into you, the expressions revealing restraint, joy, curiosity... and wariness.
Abelard"Attention, officers! You have been granted an honour — Lord Captain [Name] von Valancius will personally conduct today's briefing. Our most gracious Lord Captain is ready to hear your reports."
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"
Abelard"As you wish, Your Lordship/Ladyship." Abelard points to a tall, slender woman whose body seems to contain as many implants as it does flesh. "Vigdis Surri Otta of the Toliman line, our new Vox Master."
Vox Master Vigdis"It is an honour to serve Your Lordship/Ladyship." The Vox Master offers a deep bow. "Aboard this vessel you have at your command thousands of crew members and hundreds of officers and section chiefs. I am responsible for receiving, processing, and sending all communications between you and them, as well as external sources. I am your eyes and mouth, Lord Captain."
Abelard"Beside her is Ravor, the Master Helmsman. He steers our ship along the course set by the Lord Captain and monitors the void around us — to ensure that we do not stray into an asteroid field or a pirate trap."
Master Helmsman RavorThe bearded man with pale, almost transparent skin, large dark circles under his eyes, and a dour expression that seems hardwired into his face, gives a sullen nod. "Hail, Lord Cap'n. This here ship's as good as home to me, so rest assured she's in safe hands. I'll die before I let her come to any grief!"
Abelard"And lastly, our High Factotum Janris Danrok, who oversees supplies, procurement, and the general material well-being of the ship."
High Factotum Janris DanrokDressed in an embroidered jacket, the heavyset man with oiled hair offers an obsequious smile and bows. "It is an honour, Your Lordship/Ladyship. You may trust me with all matters concerning your comfort — everything will be done to the highest standard!"
Abelard"In the second row, we have the three officers charged with overseeing the ship's vital functions. The Master of Ordnance is responsible for the artillery aboard. The Infernus Master, whose crew work to prevent and extinguish fires on the ship. And, lastly, the Drivesmaster, servant of the Omnissiah."
NPCThe three officers salute you — the Infernus Master does so with confidence, while the Master of Ordnance betrays nervousness. The Drivesmaster offers a salute resembling a dance, involving the complicated manipulation of all the Tech-Priest's mechadendrites.
YOU"Is that everyone?"
Vox Master Vigdis"Unfortunately, our Choirmaster, the esteemed Zacchary Weisz, head of the Astropath section, is unable to join us. He is in charge of communications with distant star systems. Master Weisz has been in a trance for some time now, attempting to contact other planets in the von Valancius protectorate and inform them of Lady Theodora's passing and Kunrad Voigtvir's treachery. I will deliver a report to Your Lordship/Ladyship on the Astropath's progress as soon as it is possible to do so."
High Factotum Janris Danrok"It is equally regrettable that two more individuals worthy of mention could not join us at the briefing: the Master-at-Arms and Confessor Adalbert. The eminent Adalbert must see to the funeral services being held for the fallen officers, of whom there are too many for him to take leave from the chapel. And Mistress Sauerback, who has replaced her late predecessor as our Master-at-Arms, is currently leading the search for any surviving agents of Voigtvir."
Abelard"All others present are adjutants, secretaries, and deputies. They are here to make of a record of proceedings."
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."
Einrich Monteg"Yes, Lord Captain!" The tall man bows his head in deference. "I can report that all fires across all decks have now been extinguished. The preliminary damage assessment — in terms of material losses and crew casualties — has been completed. The results have been submitted to the Seneschal and the High Factotum."
Abelard"The post passed to him after the previous Infernus Master and his next three deputies expired in the line of duty," Abelard remarks in a low voice pitched for your ears only. "The lad is managing well so far. He can take the heat, so to speak."
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"
High Factotum Janris Danrok"We are toiling day and night to compile a full account of the losses. The task will require next to no involvement from Your Lordship/Ladyship — I will personally ensure that all damaged components are given into the Tech-Priests' hands for attention and that all lost supplies are replaced. There is only one resource that I cannot replenish single-handedly, and that is people. We have lost more than two thousand crew members, and, unfortunately, this number is not confined to the scum from the lower decks, which are easily replaced, but also includes trained professionals."
High Factotum Janris Danrok"We will be able to make up our losses on the nearest planet, Rykad Minoris. However, the planet — the whole system, in fact — belongs to the Winterscale Rogue Trader dynasty. We cannot simply begin recruiting on the planet without first coming to an understanding with the governor. In that respect, I am powerless — negotiations at this level are a matter for the Rogue Trader."
Abelard"Especially true given Calligos Winterscale's penchant for attacking first and asking questions later, and the kind of thick-skulled thugs he usually installs as governors on his planets," rumbles Abelard, frowning.
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."
Zi-Ra TallarA voice distorted by a vox-retranslator emerges from under the Tech-Priest's scarlet hood. "Lord Captain, the foes that set upon this noble voidship destroyed the repositories of hundreds of machine spirits. The great warp engine entrusted into my charge is unharmed, thank the Omnissiah, but its spirit mourns its dead brethren. We have not yet identified a prayer protocol capable of assuaging its sorrow and anger."
Zi-Ra Tallar"With great sorrow I must also report that the Enginseer Prime, overseer and spiritual authority of all Tech-Priests on board, fell in battle. The Magos was betrayed by the little flesh that remained part of him. A most terrible loss! There is no one among my comrades aboard whose experience and comprehension of the sacred protocols equals that of the fallen Magos. We require a replacement, and as soon as possible."
YOU"Would someone care to translate the esteemed Drivesmaster's words?"
Vox Master Vigdis"The ship's most senior Tech-Priest — most senior both in rank and in experience — is dead. If we do not find a replacement, we will be unable to resolve the problems with the warp engine," answers the Vox Master instantly, without even thinking — this is not the first time she has acted as an interpreter between the ship's various inhabitants.
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."
Master Helmsman Ravor"Right you are, Lord Cap'n. To cut a long story short — the outlook is bleak. The ship's sound, more or less, but without our Enginseer Prime and Navigator, who fell in battle, we have no way out of the system. If we try to set so much as a toe inside the warp, I don't know what'll happen first, our warp drive being torn to pieces or all of us melting into the bulkheads."
Vox Master Vigdis"Your Lordship/Ladyship, if you will allow me to interject — when we arrived in this system, my crew followed standard protocols and conducted a count of all the available communication channels in the region. One of them was a Navis Nobilite station. The station maintains complete vox-silence, but even its presence here inspires hope. To have located a Navigator in the very same system is an incredible stroke of luck, a true blessing from the God-Emperor."
NPC(sequence)
NPCA sharp bolt of pain lances through your skull as if in response to what you just heard. You understand that it is not the God-Emperor you should thank for such good fortune. The words of the daemon that appeared before you during the translation to realspace echo in your mind. "I am the will of the Weaver of Destinies, and today, I will weave a new thread of elusive possibilities and fickle chances. The thread that will lead you out of the maw of irreversibility. The thread that will help you find the keys to salvation."
end of branch
Master Helmsman Ravor"If I were you, I'd grab this chance with both hands, or else you'll soon be eyeing up asteroids to use as your new residence! In slightly less shitty news — we can go round and round this system till our heads are swimming, as long as the promethium and supplies last. And if any thick-as-grox-shit lowlifes come sniffing around, we'll be able to take them out, so don't you worry on that score!"
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"
Ashar NaitallomoThe Master of Ordnance gives you a gloomy look. "No. My job's simple — maintain the arsenal and fire where I'm told. But just ask anyone — we've got no able crew, no Lord Captain—"
Abelard"Master of Ordnance, you forget yourself!"
Ashar NaitallomoThe Master of Ordnance chokes back the words he was obviously about to blurt out without thinking. He casts another look at you before turning away. "I apologise profusely, Lord Captain. Pardon the fool... The ship is in ruins, every other officer is dead, and the Lord Captain is no longer with us. Fear has taken hold of me."
Ashar NaitallomoHe looks up at you. "But I've heard of you, oh yes! Your fame has reached even as far as the Expanse. I can't be showing myself up in front of an illustrious person such as yourself..." He adjusts his uniform and stands ramrod straight. "The Master of Ordnance can report that the rest of the arsenal has been saved and the battery is in good order. We are ready to fight, if that is the Lord Captain's will!"
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"
NPC"Precisely, Lord Captain. But bear in mind that this will not be the end of our trials. The ship's systems must be properly inspected for major damage, which can only be carried out at Footfall station, home to the only dockyard in the sector. But we will never reach Footfall without first solving these three immediate problems."
YOU"Abelard, what happened to Kunrad's sword? The one he carried on the bridge, if you recall."
NPCAbelard is slightly taken aback by the unexpected question. "His sword? To be honest, I'm struggling to remember... Under ordinary circumstances, I would direct you to Mort, as he was our expert on battle trophies. But as the Arch-Militant has now left us, I suggest you speak to the High Factotum. If there was anything even slightly valuable left on deck after the bloodshed, it almost certainly found its way into his hands."
YOU"Abelard, what happened to Kunrad's sword? The one he carried on the bridge, if you recall."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have any good news to relate, Abelard?"
NPC"Most certainly," Abelard says, setting his hands on his hips. "The air generators have been repaired and are running smoothly, although according to the last report, it seems the attackers tried to destroy them. If those damned fanatics had succeeded, you and I wouldn't be standing here speaking now!"
YOU"Abelard, what happened to Kunrad's sword? The one he carried on the bridge, if you recall."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have any good news to relate, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What can you tell me about the system in which we currently find ourselves?"
NPC"I cede to the Vox Master on this point. Mistress Toliman?"
Vox Master Vigdis"We are in the Rykad star system, and our voyage here was undertaken on the orders of Your Lordship/Ladyship's predecessor. There are three inhabited bodies in this system, and our attempts to send vox-messages have produced confounding results."
Vox Master Vigdis"The Navis Nobilite station has not simply failed to answer — it seems to be maintaining total vox-silence. However, we did receive a distress signal from the prison planetoid in the system. And Rykad Minoris itself is also not responding to our hails. But what is most alarming is that our augurs have intercepted signals from the surface that seem to indicate ongoing hostilities on the planet."
NPC"The situation is not very encouraging. But without a Navigator, a Tech-Priest, and new crew members, we won't be able to travel anywhere — therefore, we must go to the planet and the Navis Nobilite station and find out what in the void is going on!"
YOU"Abelard, what happened to Kunrad's sword? The one he carried on the bridge, if you recall."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have any good news to relate, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What can you tell me about the system in which we currently find ourselves?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well. Is that everything? In that case, you are all dismissed!"
NPCThe assembled officers salute you as one.
NPC"Your Lordship/Ladyship, there is one other thing. A confidential matter of the utmost importance. Lady Theodora..." Abelard hesitates. "Your eternally esteemed predecessor... brought the ship here, to this system, for a reason. She was given a secret commission. You perhaps are wondering who has the authority to commission a Rogue Trader to do anything? And I shall tell you — the Lord Inquisitor, the Hand of the Emperor, the chief architect of His will in the Koronus Expanse."
YOU"I would be honoured to fulfil the Inquisitor's commission. What is it he asked of Theodora?"
NPC"Lady Theodora was to seek out the Lord Inquisitor's right hand man, one Heinrix van Calox. An Interrogator, you understand. All I know is that he is somewhere in this system, that we must find him and offer him whatever assistance he requires, and then deliver him to Footfall in the Furibundus System. Finding him without any more information to go on will be difficult indeed, but an Inquisitor is an important individual. The authorities in the system, either the Navis Nobilite or the governor of Rykad Minoris, may know something."
NPC"That is all of it, Your Lordship/Ladyship. You have a great deal of work ahead of you, but it is a mere taste of the daily burden of a Rogue Trader. Soon you must take up the reins of the von Valancius protectorate..." Abelard gives you another scrutinising look, as if trying to gauge how long you will hold out under this mountain of problems. His face softens slightly, and it seems he is about to offer some words of encouragement—
NPC"Idira? Sister Argenta? Explain yourselves."
ArgentaThe Sister of Battle grimly nods toward Idira. "The psyker is suffering some ailment... or dark madness. She insisted on seeing the Rogue Trader. I judged that it would be unwise... to leave her unsupervised."
ArgentaFor a brief moment, Sister Argenta's voice sounds hesitant. "I was also hoping to approach you with a personal request. But it can wait. Speak with me when you have time, Rogue Trader."
IdiraIdira's glazed eyes rove over those assembled. One word bursts from her lips: "Daybreak..."
YOU"Idira! Come to your senses."
Idira"Damn it!" Idira presses her fingers to her temples in desperation. "Y-Your Lordship/Ladyship. Here's the thing. I was trying to see the immediate future, and it hit me so hard... my head is still spinning. Something very strange is heading our way, and I can't make out what it is, no matter how hard I try. A single word is all I can make out: 'daybreak.' Or maybe it's 'dawn'... And it's ringing and ringing like an echo, like a bell... But if it's daybreak, then why is it so dark?"
NPC"We cannot extract any information of value from a single word. Can you tell us anything else, Mistress Tlass?"
Idira"No. Not yet anyway. The voices are going berserk, all shouting at once, I can't make sense of any of it. As soon as I know or sense anything, I'll report it, all right?"
Idira"Lord Captain, if you want me to take a closer look into your future, find me on the bridge and we can talk. Lady Theodora was well served by my whispers on many occasions, and I'm sure you would benefit from them as well." The psyker's bitten lips stretch into a wry smile.
YOU"Idira! Come to your senses."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Abelard, bring the witch to heel."
NPC"Tlass, cease your buffoonery immediately and report the reason for your intrusion!"
Idira"Damn it!" Idira presses her fingers to her temples in desperation. "Y-Your Lordship/Ladyship. Here's the thing. I was trying to see the immediate future, and it hit me so hard... my head is still spinning. Something very strange is heading our way, and I can't make out what it is, no matter how hard I try. A single word is all I can make out: 'daybreak.' Or maybe it's 'dawn'... And it's ringing and ringing like an echo, like a bell... But if it's daybreak, then why is it so dark?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"If there is nothing else of value to report, I declare this briefing concluded. It is time to get to work."
end of branch
YOU"Abelard, bring the witch to heel."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"If there is nothing else of value to report, I declare this briefing concluded. It is time to get to work."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I came across a strange handwritten letter on Theodora's desk. It was signed X.C. You are referring to the contents of that note, I presume?"
NPC"Yes, quite right. X.C. — Xavier Calcazar."
NPC"Lady Theodora was to seek out the Lord Inquisitor's right hand man, one Heinrix van Calox. An Interrogator, you understand. All I know is that he is somewhere in this system, that we must find him and offer him whatever assistance he requires, and then deliver him to Footfall in the Furibundus System. Finding him without any more information to go on will be difficult indeed, but an Inquisitor is an important individual. The authorities in the system, either the Navis Nobilite or the governor of Rykad Minoris, may know something."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is that so? And what is the task with which she was entrusted?"
NPC"Lady Theodora was to seek out the Lord Inquisitor's right hand man, one Heinrix van Calox. An Interrogator, you understand. All I know is that he is somewhere in this system, that we must find him and offer him whatever assistance he requires, and then deliver him to Footfall in the Furibundus System. Finding him without any more information to go on will be difficult indeed, but an Inquisitor is an important individual. The authorities in the system, either the Navis Nobilite or the governor of Rykad Minoris, may know something."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if I choose to simply ignore this so-called commission?"
NPC"You would cease to be a Rogue Trader. And perhaps cease to be altogether," Abelard says gravely. "Your Lordship/Ladyship, it is your prerogative to disregard anyone you wish in the Koronus Expanse. But not the Inquisition. Never the Inquisition."
YOU"I would be honoured to fulfil the Inquisitor's commission. What is it he asked of Theodora?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I came across a strange handwritten letter on Theodora's desk. It was signed X.C. You are referring to the contents of that note, I presume?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Is that so? And what is the task with which she was entrusted?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What if I choose to simply ignore this so-called commission?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you all for your reports. Dismissed!"
NPCThe assembled officers salute you as one.continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well. Is that everything? In that case, you are all dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you all for your reports. Dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What can you tell me about the system in which we currently find ourselves?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well. Is that everything? In that case, you are all dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you all for your reports. Dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have any good news to relate, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What can you tell me about the system in which we currently find ourselves?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well. Is that everything? In that case, you are all dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you all for your reports. Dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)
High Factotum Janris DanrokThe High Factotum bows, forcing his way into the conversation: "I am compelled to draw your attention to another problem. It is on a lesser scale than anything previously mentioned, but it is nonetheless significant. Our most ancient archeotech, the sacred implantation throne damaged during the riot, is at risk of destruction. I dare not take up any more of your valuable time, so please, if possible, attend the Sector Bionica, where the Drivesmaster will tell you of the tragedy."
end of branch
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"
NPC"As you wish, Your Lordship/Ladyship. The report will be far from cheering — we must find a replacement for the dead Navigator. This is a task that is extremely challenging even under normal circumstances, but the God-Emperor's blessing is clearly upon you. We have just ascertained that there is a Navis Nobilite station in the Rykad System. Such Navigator bastions are unbelievably rare, and our having ended up here is an incredible coincidence that can only be explained by divine intervention. You should visit the station, Lord Captain, and find someone to fill the vacant post."
NPC(sequence)
NPCA sharp bolt of pain lances through your skull as if in response to what you just heard. You understand that it is not the God-Emperor you should thank for such good fortune. The words of the daemon that appeared before you during the translation to realspace echo in your mind. "I am the will of the Weaver of Destinies, and today, I will weave a new thread of elusive possibilities and fickle chances. The thread that will lead you out of the maw of irreversibility. The thread that will help you find the keys to salvation."
end of branch
NPC"Item two on the bad news list — our Enginseer Prime fell in battle. Without his assistance, we cannot soothe the ship's machine spirits. Finding a new Tech-Priest, and a Magos at that, will be far from easy. But there is some prospect of success."
NPC"And the third piece of bad news — the last one, fortunately. Crew losses have surpassed two thousand people. If we do not make good on this deficit, we will not have sufficient hands on board to facilitate normal void travel. This system contains a large inhabited planet — Rykad Minoris. We will probably be able to find sufficient workers there, but there is a matter of some diplomatic delicacy — the planet is controlled by House Winterscale, the Rogue Trader dynasty. We cannot simply recruit people from the planet without first coming to an agreement with the governor."
YOU"Abelard, what happened to Kunrad's sword? The one he carried on the bridge, if you recall."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Do you have any good news to relate, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What can you tell me about the system in which we currently find ourselves?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Very well. Is that everything? In that case, you are all dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you all for your reports. Dismissed!"continues where this line first appears above
NPC(sequence)
NPCThe alien entity coiled in the depths of your mind begins to shift restlessly. Its demand is clear: find. But not the people the Seneschal mentioned. You must discover something. Track something down. Shine. Blood. The Truth-begetting primordial steel. A shard left in the body of Kunrad Voigtvir's victim suddenly rises before your mind's eye in stark clarity.
end of branch
High Factotum Janris DanrokThe High Factotum bows, forcing his way into the conversation: "I am compelled to draw your attention to another problem. It is on a lesser scale than anything previously mentioned, but it is nonetheless significant. Our most ancient archeotech, the sacred implantation throne damaged during the riot, is at risk of destruction. I dare not take up any more of your valuable time, so please, if possible, attend the Sector Bionica, where the Drivesmaster will tell you of the tragedy."
end of branch
Ashar Naitallomo"So what?" comes the officer's hostile and bitter reply. It is as if a dam has burst inside and all his pent-up emotions are rushing out of him. "The ship's in ruins! Every second officer's dead! And now we've got a green Lord Captain who's supposed to lead us to void knows where!"
Abelard"Silence!" The bridge's magnificent glass panes seem to tremble under the force of Abelard's roar. "Enforcers, seize this mutineer!"
NPCAbelard grunts. "If only one officer out of the whole lot has fallen to pieces, then that's not bad at all. Your Lordship/Ladyship, I do humbly apologise on behalf of the entire crew. What would you have us do with the Master of Ordnance? The former Master of Ordnance, I should say. Besides find a replacement, that is, for we already have one lined up."
YOU[Draw your weapon and execute the officer personally] "Let this be a lesson to the rest of you: I did not tolerate such conduct in my regiment, and I will not tolerate it on my bridge."
NPCAbelard gives a reserved nod and glares at the speechless officers. "I certainly hope that all of us here have taken this lesson from the Officio Prefectus to heart."
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Stand down! Release him. I have no intention of punishing a man for a moment of weakness, not after the terrible attack we have endured."
NPCAbelard stares unblinkingly at the Master of Ordnance. "Cease your snivelling. You disgrace yourself and your entire clan. Enough. The hysterics are over — let us resume."
Ashar NaitallomoThe Master of Ordnance stands up, wiping the blood from his broken nose. His face is the picture of shock. What just happened seems to be dawning on him only now, and the knowledge of the fate he so narrowly escaped.
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Execute him."
NPCAbelard nods stiffly. "Consider it done. Take him away!"
NPCThe brittle laughter of the Master of Ordnance reverberates around the bridge as he is led to his fate.
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Experienced Masters of Ordnance are few and far between. So for that reason — he may remain in post. I leave his punishment at your discretion, Abelard."
Abelard"Twenty lashes a month for the next six months. Deprivation of officer's rations and privileges for the same period. With the option to extend. Record that in his file!"
NPCAbelard stares unblinkingly at the Master of Ordnance. "Cease your snivelling. You disgrace yourself and your entire clan. Enough. The hysterics are over — let us resume."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I see, thank you."
Zi-Ra TallarThe Tech-Priest bows her head.
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Thank you, Abelard. Greetings to you all."
Abelard"I serve at your pleasure, Lord Captain."
YOU"Perhaps you would introduce those present, Abelard?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I wish to hear the Infernus Master's report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"High Factotum, what have you to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Drivesmaster, I will hear from you now."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master Helmsman, deliver your status report."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Master of Ordnance, do you have anything to report?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"To summarise: we have sustained serious losses in crew members and we require a new Enginseer Prime and Navigator. Is this all that is preventing us from continuing the voyage?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU[Yawn] "I haven't the time to be listening to every last officer on this hulking rig. Abelard, give me a precis — what are the major problems and what needs to be done?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"It is difficult to accept this state of affairs. But I shall endeavour to do so."
AbelardAbelard nods deferentially. "We all have burdens to carry in the name of the God-Emperor, [Name]."
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I do not care. I refuse to accept the Rogue Trader title! You shall set me down on the nearest planet."
AbelardAbelard looks at you in alarm. "I... can scarcely stop you, Your Lordship/Ladyship. Are you certain of your decision?"
YOU"Yes. I shall leave the ship at the first opportunity."
AbelardAbelard sighs heavily and seems to age another ten years before your eyes. "Very well, [Name]. I shall relay all the necessary instructions for the landing. It was a pleasure to know you. Farewell."
end of branch
YOU"No. Forget this discussion."
Abelard"You have endured much in recent days... anyone in your position would lose their equilibrium." Despite his relaxed tone, Abelard continues to scrutinise you.
YOU"How did we come to lose so many officers?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"What is on the agenda for this meeting?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"You misspoke, surely — I am the Lady Captain, am I not?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Have you succeeded in tracking down Voigtvir?"continues where this line first appears above
YOU"Wait, Abelard. There is an altogether more pressing problem — I do not wish to be the Rogue Trader."continues where this line first appears above
YOU"I am ready to start the briefing. Summon the officers."continues where this line first appears above
NPCYou cannot help but notice that the Seneschal does not know how to talk to you or where to begin. His hesitation brings an involuntary smirk to your face — as though someone else entirely is gloating at the old officer's confusion. Seeing your smile, Abelard pulls himself together.
Abelard"You must now hold your first officers' briefing in your new role as Lord Captain. For many of those who are about to join us on the bridge, this will also be their first briefing. We sustained massive losses among the senior and middle-ranking officers — some posts have had to be filled by the deputy's deputy's deputy, while others go unfilled entirely, and now the deck clans are deciding who will take over the leaderless crews."continues where this line first appears above
Abelard"You must now hold your first officers' briefing in your new role as Lord Captain. For many of those who are about to join us on the bridge, this will also be their first briefing. We sustained massive losses among the senior and middle-ranking officers — some posts have had to be filled by the deputy's deputy's deputy, while others go unfilled entirely, and now the deck clans are deciding who will take over the leaderless crews."continues where this line first appears above
Entry point 2 of 5
NPCThe High Factotum breaks away from the rest and approaches you, bowing repeatedly. "Lord Captain, if I may steal just one more moment of your time... The matter is rather delicate, as it concerns trophies that were left after the battles on the ship. One trophy in particular, I should say."
NPC"I retrieved a blade fragment from one of the bodies on the bridge. A curious article. I saw the need to keep it safe in case it should be of interest to you..." As he says this, the Factotum's gaze slides away from yours and he looks off somewhere over your shoulder.
YOU"You were right to do so. Give it to me."
NPC"Of course... Please." The Factotum takes his time, but after a few moments he withdraws a small, jagged shard that gleams with a pearlescent lustre.
NPC(sequence)
NPCThe moment you touch the blade, you hear a satisfied whisper in your head. Now you know — you have taken the first step. But only the first. A long road stretches out before you, one studded with pearlescent stars.
end of branch
YOU"Get rid of it. Immediately."
NPC(sequence)
NPCA spike of pain pierces your skull — the entity inside you howls and rages, promising you a million torments and miseries for this treachery.
end of branch
NPCYour shout has an immediate effect on Janris — he jolts as if waking from a stupor. "Of course, Your Lordship/Ladyship! I will see to it immediately!"
end of branch
YOU"You should keep it for now. As soon as we locate this acolyte of the Inquisition, you will hand the blade over to him."
NPC(sequence)
NPCA spike of pain pierces your skull — the entity inside you howls and rages, promising you a million torments and miseries for this treachery.
end of branch
NPCThe Factotum gives a start and briskly makes a note on his data-slate. "Of course, Your Lordship/Ladyship."
end of branch
Entry point 3 of 5
NPC(sequence)
end of branch
Entry point 4 of 5
NPC"The medics only just saved you in time — luckily, one of the healers remembered the existence of a long-forgotten augment station in storage. The blessings of the Omnissiah saved your life — some of your internal organs had to be replaced with implants. The good news is that now we have the capabilities to install augmentations of any complexity." The Seneschal then mutters to himself, "I swear, sometimes it seems new compartments spring up on this ship of their own volition..."